Topic 6: Naming of viruses (Nomenclature)

A. VIDEOS

1. Nomenclature and classification of viruses
2. How do viruses and diseases named?
3. Viral taxonomy and nomenclature
4. Virus nomenclature

B. LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this lesson, students should be able to:

1. Define virus nomenclature and explain its purpose in virology.

2. Describe the role of the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) in naming and classifying viruses.

3. Explain the principles and rules used in virus naming, including use of family, genus, and species names.

4. Differentiate between virus names and virus species names.

5. Identify standard suffixes used in viral taxonomy (e.g. -viridae, -virus).

6. Explain common bases for virus naming, including host, disease, geographic origin, structure, and replication features.

7. Apply correct virus naming conventions when writing scientific reports and laboratory records.

8. Interpret virus names to infer basic information about viral characteristics or taxonomy.

9. Recognize changes in virus naming practices and the importance of standardized nomenclature.

10. Demonstrate proper use of virus names in academic, veterinary, and laboratory contexts.

C. SUBTOPICS/LESSONS

1. Lesson1: Why do we name viruses?
2. Lesson 2: How do we name viruses?

D. STUDY QUESTIONS